Sunday, March 16, 2008

Kindredist Meaning

Hmmm…I bet you were wondering today what the etymology of “kindredist” is.

First, I wanted a name that no other Web site has used. So I’m happy to have made it up and found that it is a completely new word, and one that is not found in any language, so it is exclusive to my blog. It also has direct connection to my view of life, of justice, and, especially, of praise. So let’s start with the root word.

Although it generally refers to family as in “kin,” "kindred" is a word often used in one of my favorite stories, "Anne of Green Gables," in the phrase "kindred spirit." In the story, it meant being more than a best friend, but not in a sexual way, and had a similar meaning to “soulmate” but within the context of friendship, or a friend whom you truly love who shares an exciting and benevolent view of life with you.

Therefore, "kindredist" means someone who practices loving his or her values and praises similarly-minded people, within a rational, grateful and benevolent context.

I really like this term, "kindredist." The closest term in another language that I know of is "nakama" in japanese.

It can mean a bond that's very special, even stronger than a friend, but doesn't necessarily imply sexual feelings.

It's like being with a group of people who are irreplaceable to you. In an anime I watch called "One Piece" the main protagonist's understanding of who his "nakama" are extends to risking his life to save them--to him, his nakama aren't just irreplaceable; he doesn't want to exist in a world without them if he can help it.

That is so wonderful that it's one of your favorite books. I've debated for years whether or not to legally change my middle name to "Cordelia." That was her window friend at the orphanage, as you probably remember. Here is a nice quote:

"Anne tipped the vase of apple blossoms near enough to bestow a soft kiss on a pink-cupped bud, and then studied diligently for some moments longer. 'Marila,' she demanded presently, 'do you think that I shall ever have a bosom friend in Avonlea?' 'A--a what kind of a friend?' 'A bosom friend--an intimate friend, you know--a really kindred spirit to whom I can confide my inmost soul. I've dreamed of meeting her all my life. I never really supposed I would, but so many of my loveliest dreams have come true all at once that perhaps this one will, too. Do you think it's possible?"

I tried to convince my husband to let me name our daughter "Anne Cordelia" but it didn't fly! Still, I tried. :o)

I love the passage you quoted. Another kindred spirit-bosom friend scene that stands out in my mind is when Anne and Diana "part forever" because Diana's mother didn't want her to play with Anne anymore (oops with the "raspberry cordial"!). Sigh.